Today we’d like to introduce you to Kirstin Dunbar.
Hi, Kirstin; having you on the platform is an honor. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
A few years ago, we lost a very outgoing, loving, and spontaneous member of our small family. He was honorable, a fantastic brother, son, uncle, and a highly respected and decorated combat war United States Marine. We thought he would continue to live life to the fullest and have many more adventures ahead. But that night, he lost his battle to a quiet, internal struggle with mental illness. It is a call no one wishes for anyone to receive. This moment was my first experience of loss as an adult. I physically felt the pain, heard the sadness, and saw the hurt exuded among everyone. The hardest thing to watch was my aunt, who dedicated 30 years of her life to the funeral industry, helping thousands of other families in their worst times. Watching her plan and direct the services and bury her younger brother made me realize what true strength and heartache were. After some time had passed, I wanted to continue celebrating his life, remembering him, and getting more comfortable asking my aunt difficult questions about grief and loss. I wanted to know why there wasn’t more conversation and openness and whether it was okay to laugh still, cry, and joke. I also asked about what to give and the options besides flowers that could be sent to younger adults for their home or to wear. I faced a similar challenge when trying to come up with something for my younger male cousins at the time, as they were experiencing such a profound loss, too. So, I started hand-making a few items – simplistic, timeless, aesthetic, beautiful, luxurious, yet affordable, unisex, and accessible to anyone and everyone, especially the younger population who are experiencing loss at earlier ages than ever before.
The idea of Modern Memorial has been evolving since that phone call, but now it has bloomed into an actual company. I believe it will help heal or start to heal others, even if it’s only a tiny sliver of their pain. A gift does not have to be” over the top,” you surely do not need to send the most significant flower arrangement to the funeral home. A simple card, a light-hearted casual item, or a fully custom remembrance box is the perfect gift and the thought that counts during such a difficult time. Since the inception of Modern Memorial, my family, many of my colleagues, and friends have lost more loved ones, including babies, as well as our furry friends. Throughout this time, having been surrounded by the best support system, deciding to take a risk, going all in, and wanting to normalize loss – this is how I am starting my journey as an entrepreneur.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As a first-time entrepreneur, I’m candid about still navigating a steep mountain. My priority is maintaining my mental and physical health to ensure I can consistently show up and maintain a positive mindset (with a few cries in between)! Building a product-based business—excluding drop-shipping—requires capital for product testing, design revisions, inventory, and navigating manufacturing challenges, quality control tests, and shipment delays. I constantly remind myself daily to keep my eyes on the top of the mountain. With every setback, roadblock, and challenge, I ask myself: how badly do I want it?
I appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about the Modern Memorial?
Modern Memorial Co. is an online grieving gift shop with a profound mission: normalizing loss. We offer a diverse selection of high-quality items, from casual to luxury, all designed to be affordable, unisex, aesthetically pleasing, and conveniently accessible for those facing death, loss, and the complex journey of grief. Whether seeking a personal keepsake to honor a cherished memory or a thoughtfully curated gift box to comfort someone else, our company caters to every individual and age group. Our commitment to being a unisex, monochrome brand offering modern options in the bereavement industry sets us apart. Our designs are neutral yet bold, timeless, and elegantly simplistic. Loss is undeniably one of life’s most significant challenges, and we aspire to foster greater awareness, meaning, and openness surrounding it. While it’s common to feel at a loss for words or find the topic difficult to discuss, engaging in these conversations is crucial. We aim to reassure others that they’re not alone and to express our support through sympathy and thoughtful gifts. Let them know that they are in our thoughts and prayers and that we stand ready to provide comfort during a difficult time.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was a tad more reserved yet independent, inquisitive, curious, and creative. I tended to take the lead in every group project, always striving for perfection. I participated in both the math and art clubs, served on the Student Council, and cheered as a cheerleading squad member. I also worked as a peer mediator in school, demonstrating a cautious and socially adept nature while maintaining excellent academic standing and engaging in volunteer work related to children and medicine. I have always found joy in arts and crafts projects, outdoor walks, and admiring the beauty of nature through photography. Despite being very close, my younger sister and I are pretty opposites. I naturally feel protective of her while allowing her room to grow and excel in her talents, whether as an athlete or otherwise, while still learning from her and enjoying trips, milestones, and experiences together.
Pricing:
- 18.00
- 36.00
- 42.00
- 68.00
- 128.00
Contact Info:
- Website: shopmemorial.com
- Instagram: modernmemorial
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kirstin-dunbar
Image Credits
JOAN FISHER
